Love this club

Former Australia international Tony Vidmar has praised current day star Mark Bresciano for his role in the team.

The 33-year old Al-Gharafa midfielder is a key player in Holger Osieck's Socceroos side and former Rangers, Cardiff City and Middlesbrough defender Vidmar believes it is because of penchant for the big stage.

"Bresh doesn't mind playing under pressure," Vidmar told the Daily Telegraph ahead of the Socceroos' vital World Cup qualifier against Iraq in Sydney on Tuesday night.

"In a game like Japan, where the team's under pressure, he always wants the ball, is always happy to receive it.

"He's played at the highest level for a long time - he has a good reading of the game and good technique and that gives a reassurance to those around him.

"Bresh is first and foremost a team player, and he just sets such a good example. Everything he does is how a footballer should be - he's still working on his game, never happy with where it's at.

"Everything he does is about being at the top of his game, the way he respects his body, and I hope that example continues to rub off on those around him."